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Daviess County proclaims September 2025 Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month
Summary
Daviess County Fiscal Court adopted a proclamation recognizing September 2025 as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month and heard remarks from River Valley Behavioral Health on local suicide trends and crisis resources.
Daviess County Judge Executive Charlie Castle read and signed a proclamation recognizing September 2025 as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month at the Daviess County Fiscal Court meeting on Sept. 18.
The proclamation urges residents to learn warning signs, support people in crisis and use crisis resources; it references the national 988 crisis line as an immediate resource. "This proclamation is more than a formality. It's a powerful statement that we, as a community, are united in our commitment to saving lives," said Dr. Lionel Phelps, vice president of population health for River Valley Behavioral Health, which received the proclamation on behalf of its team.
Nut graf: The court's proclamation coincides with River Valley Behavioral Health's presentation about local trends and prevention resources, including the county's ongoing need for timely intervention services. Dr. Phelps told the court that suicide is a leading cause of death among young people and that for Kentuckians the annual toll is roughly 900 lives, including more than 100 veterans each year, and stressed that suicide is preventable with timely care.
Court members and River Valley staff outlined available resources and local prevention work. Dr. Phelps said the 988 crisis line connects callers or texters immediately to trained crisis professionals available 24/7: "By dialing or texting 988, you or your loved one will be immediately connected to a trained crisis professional who is available 24/7 to listen, provide support, and guide you to the resources you need." He also described River Valley programs such as mental health first aid and QPR training.
Commissioner Connor briefly urged a simple step for neighbors: "Saying the three simple words, are you okay? Are you okay?" The court and River Valley representatives discussed placing awareness signs at county locations.
Ending: The proclamation was accepted by River Valley Behavioral Health staff, who posed with court members for a presentation photo. The county public materials reference 988 and local crisis hotlines for immediate help.
